Former Vancouver chief city planner to talk ‘density done well’ on Gold Coast

10 June 2016

Gold Coast residents are invited to hear from one of the world’s leading planning experts and have their say to help shape the Queensland Government’s planning blueprint for the future of South East Queensland.

South East Queensland Regional Plan project director, Greg Vann, said the community session would be held in partnership with the City of Gold Coast and would provide residents with the unique chance to hear from inspiring guest speaker and former Vancouver chief planner Brent Toderian.

Mr Toderian is a leading urbanist whose expert advice on creative, vibrant city-building has been sought world-wide.

He spent six years with the city of Vancouver, including overseeing the planning and design related to the 2010 Winter Olympics.

“Brent’s presentation will challenge how we think about our region and provide examples of how some cities have managed population growth and the changing needs of their communities,” Mr Vann said.

“His trademark theme ‘density done well’ will look at how some cities have grown up and not out, but have continued to retain their unique character.

“Our conversation with the community is the first step in the review of the South East Queensland Regional Plan which for the first time will have a 50-year outlook and be underpinned by a 25 year planning framework.

“The Gold Coast is a great place to live and we have fantastic opportunities to shape how we grow, live, connect and prosper as a sustainable community while still maintaining the enviable lifestyle we know and love.”

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate encouraged residents to come along to the event and have their say on future planning in South East Queensland.

“The development of our own City Plan, which was guided by the contribution of more than 2,400 Gold Coast industry and community members, will sit within the revised South East Queensland Regional Plan.

“By getting involved in the conversation, we can all help shape our region and ensure it remains one of the most liveable in the world,” Mayor Tate said.

This is the sixth event in the Queensland Government’s ‘Thought Leadership series’ which explores the great ideas of place-making specialists and taps into community conversations about the future of South East Queensland.